This page is updated every Monday. On weeks when Monday is an observed holiday, the page will be updated on Tuesday of that week.
 
In accordance with Public Works Code, Article 16, Section 806, a written appeal may be made in regards to the removal of a tree within 15 or 30 days of the posting date (depending on the posting period).  Appeals must state the grounds for the appeal and may be sent to urbanforestry@sfdpw.org or mailed to San Francisco Public Works Bureau of Urban Forestry, 49 South Van Ness Ave, Ste 1000, San Francisco, CA 94103.
 
Our aim at Public Works is for San Francisco to have a thriving, robust urban forest. 
 
That is why we always look for all alternatives before choosing tree removal or approving a property owner's request for removal. However, removals are sometimes necessary to protect public safety, first and foremost, and to navigate the many challenges of growing trees in an urban setting.
 
We always look to see if a street tree is replantable in its current location, or closest available site.  If we have explored all options and cannot replant a street tree, that means the basin is not in compliance with Public Works Director's Order 187,246, as well as with the Minimum Guidelines which can be found on the Plant a Street Tree page.  Some common considerations that limit street tree replanting include sidewalk width, proximity to any existing infrastructure (street lights, traffic lights, stop signs, bus stops, etc.) and conflicts with any underground utilities. 
 
If Location IS replantable, tree will be replaced unless conflict with underground utilities is found. If conflict is found, replacement will be relocated or added to deferred replacement report if replacement location not found within 120 days.
 
If Location is NOT replantable, Replacement will be relocated or added to deferred replacement report if replacement location not found within 120 days.
 
Please note, photos and descriptions will be removed once the posting period has expired. Contact urbanforestry@sfdpw.org or 628-652-TREE (8733) with questions or for more information.
 
 

Active Appeals at the Board of Appeals

AgendaDistrictAddressAppeal No.Hearing DateDescriptionPermit and Hearing Nos.Links
     
 
  

 

  • District 5

    Site: 1
     

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: The tree displays canopy dieback, roughly 50–60% of the canopy consists of dead or declining branches with no viable foliage. Entire scaffold limbs on one side of the tree are structurally compromised and fully dead. Dead branches pose a near-term fall hazard to the public right-of-way (vehicles and pedestrians).If removal is approved, recommend replacement with an appropriate species better suited to the restricted root zone and urban stressors.
     

    Posting Period: 06/09/25 - 07/09/25

  • District 11

    Site: 1
     

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Due to the combination of structural defects, root pruning required which will destabilize the tree, and safety concerns related to sidewalk displacement and potential limb failures, tree removal is recommended. Location is replantable. 
     

    Posting Period: 06/02/25 - 07/02/25

  • District 11

    Site: 1
     

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Removal due to active structural damage to private property, public safety (uplifted sidewalk in a high traffic flow area) structural trunk crack can pose future risk. Recommended removal and replacement with more appropriate species for the area.
     

    Posting Period: 06/30/25 - 7/30/25

  • District 11

    Site: 1
     

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Removal of one (1) street tree with replacement by Public Works. The subject tree is a Cordyline australis (Dracena Palm) and it is located in the sidewalk at the curb. Urban Forestry staff are recommending removal due to the growth of the trunk into path of travel for pedestians as well as over and into the roadway. This location is replantable.
     

    Posting Period: 06/23/25 - 07/23/25